The Reef

The Reef is a large, diverse underwater ecosystem formed by groups of coral polyps building calcium carbonate structures. It provides habitat for numerous marine species, supports fishing industries, protects coastlines from erosion, and fosters tourism. Coral reefs thrive in warm, shallow waters and are vital to global biodiversity. However, they face threats from climate change, pollution, overfishing, and ocean acidification. Protecting reefs involves reducing carbon emissions, managing fisheries sustainably, and combating pollution to preserve their ecological and economic importance.